Do Gums Grow Back After Bone Graft?
Gum disease is a common oral health issue that affects millions of adults each year. Symptoms associated with severe gum disease can include bone loss and damage to the structures that hold the teeth in place. In some cases of bone loss, the periodontist or dental professional may suggest that the patient receive a bone graft.
Bone grafting works to restore the damaged jawbone and helps preserve the patient’s oral health. A bone graft also encourages the body to grow new bone tissue.
Symptoms
Gum disease can result in serious symptoms and cause oral health issues. This may include things such as pain, red or swollen gums, gum recession, loss of bone, and even tooth loss. The most severe form of gum disease is called periodontitis. It negatively affects the bones that support the teeth and the gums.
The failure to practice good oral hygiene can allow for harmful bacteria to flourish in the mouth, resulting in the gums being red, inflamed, and sensitive. Below is a summary of symptoms commonly associated with gum disease:
- Chronically bad breath or halitosis
- Gums that are red, swollen, and easily bleed
- Loose teeth
- Pain or discomfort, especially when chewing
- Increased sensitivity
Plaque, tartar, and harmful bacteria can also reach below the gums. This can result in an infection of the tissue located below the teeth, damaging the tissue and bone that support the teeth. When there is a lack of support, it can ultimately result in tooth loss. The most common cause of tooth loss in adults is gum disease. Bone grafting is, fortunately, a treatment that can stop the progression of gum disease and restore oral health for the patient.
Bone Grafting
Bone grafting is a common surgical procedure that restores lost or damaged jawbone tissue. The periodontist or dental professional will cut into the gums and remove any infected gum tissue. Bone graft material is then strategically placed in the area receiving treatment. Over time, the body actually creates new bone tissue that replaces the graft. The treatment can effectively repair a damaged jawbone and aids in preserving the patient’s natural teeth.
Materials
There are a variety of materials that can be used in bone grafting. Below is a summary of possible materials:
- Bone from another part of the patient's own body
- Human donor bone, often obtained from a cadaver
- Donor animal bone
- Synthetic material
Recovery
It can take several months for the bone graft to fully heal. Patients who want a dental implant must wait for the bone to heal completely before the implant can be placed. During the recovery process, the body creates new bone tissue that eventually replaces the grafted material. When patients require a minor bone grafting, the grafting procedure may be able to be performed at the same time as the dental implant. Patients may be curious if the gums grow back after gum grafting. The gums do not regenerate through the bone grafting procedure, but there are other procedures that can be used. This can include a gum graft or the Pinhole Surgical Technique, which can be used to restore lost or damaged gum tissue.
Regenerating Tissue
Some dental professionals use mesh filters or membranes in addition to the bone graft. This helps stimulate the growth of new bone tissue. In recent years, there have been remarkable enhancements to the bone grafting procedure. It is an excellent treatment that can restore lost bone tissue due to gum disease or tooth loss.
Call the office today to determine if you may be a good candidate for bone grafting. The team can answer any questions related to the procedure, recovery, and expected outcome.